When troubles come and hopes depart

When troubles come and hopes depart
in mercy, Lord, arise;
the ruined landscape of my heart
lies bare before your eyes.

2. Where human pride is humbled low
and crushed beneath your hand,
your solace, Lord, again bestow
and heal this broken land.

3. Though darkness seems to hide your face
amid earth’s sin and pain,
break through the clouds, O God of grace,
restore my soul again.

4. The banner of your love unfurled
proclaims a sheltering arm;
no foes in all this fallen world
can bring your people harm.

5. In holiness your word goes forth
from that eternal throne:
to east and west, to south and north,
your glory rules alone.

6. Frail human strength is nothing worth
beset by evil powers,
yet with the God of all the earth
the victory is ours!